Sub-Frame WIN! :( "custom"! new pics, can someone explain?! Options

[mgnt232]

Soo i decided to replace my almost shot subframe today with the one I bought from Jims 95 ST (mines a 94, but i didnt think it would mattterrrr )

So every single! bolt lines up fine, with the exception of 2....fairly important bolts
The bolt on the top, to hold the rack and pinion in place do not line up. I measured with a piece of string (after I spent many rust filled hours in the hot sun, and took out and put in the new one) and discovered (pic shows details) that the new k-frame is bout 1 1/2" - 2" longer than my original. They are generally in the same place, like if my rack was 2 inches longer it would work perfect...but its not

I think I have an idea, as I am just going to get a piece of metal (like 1/4" thick) and cut it to be able to extend the piece the steering bolts to. Then drill out holes to bolt to the holes on it now, and drill out holes to where the rack can actually bolt on. I feel like if i get it sturdy it should be fine, as it just has to hold it in place. And once its in I will bring it to my uncles to try and weld the extended pieces on there, so my steering doesnt just break

Why would this be though? i just 100% do not understand, is the steering from a 94 really that much different than a 95? I mean my engine is from a 95! Keep in mind absolutely every other bolt is, on and perfectly fine...

any thoughts would be great as i have given up for the day (took me alone like 8 hourrrsssss, mainly cause i didt really know what i was doing) .
ugh this suckkkss..



This post has been edited by mgnt232: Aug 2, 2010 - 7:31 PM

[Spider77]

If your going to use loctite, prime it first! It'll help it hold alot better (sat through a whole presentation from loctite). I guess welding the brackets over would of been the optimal solution, but way to get creative and make it work.

[mgnt232]

i wish i read that before lol, i sat through a presentation at school a couple years ago, and now i remember that lol.

But the whole idea has worked. Stared driving around my parking lot first, then on a 30mph twisty road (was sooooooo nervous lol) but then onto a 55mph curvy road and she handles pretty well. I think it may turn one way easier? but nothing too noticeable.

Oh and....my steering wheel (wheels straight) lol

[HectortheRican]

HOLY *** DUDE!!! hahaha. But very resourceful on the fix, nice!

[mgnt232]

haha yeah its a little annoying but at least my frame wont fall out any more